Diplomats Dropped by Drexel

Feb 06, 2016

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – A number of tightly-contested decisions failed to go Franklin & Marshall's way and proved to be its downfall in a hard-fought 34-3 loss to Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) foe Drexel on Saturday afternoon in Philadelphia.

The Diplomats fell to 3-12, 0-8 EIWA with the decision while the Dragons improved to 7-7, 4-3 EIWA.

Rick Durso (141), ranked No. 14 in the nation, sustained his hot streak by winning his ninth straight bout and tallying F&M's lone points on the day. Facing two-time NCAA Qualifier Kevin Devoy, Durso continued to prove tough on top. Knotted at 4-4 heading into the third, Devoy chose bottom and paid for it, as the Diplomats' 2014 All-American grappler rode out his opponent in the final frame for the third straight week, taking the victory on riding time.

The win ensured Durso's fourth 30-win season of his career and improved him to 30-8 overall in 2015-16, including a staggering 15-2 mark against EIWA opponents.

Starting at 174, Drexel jumped out to an early 12-0 advantage in the match heading into the heavyweight contest. Antonio Pelusi (285) battled and took the lead in the third with a takedown. However, a Joseph Goodhart escape and the riding-time point swung the bout in Drexel's favor.

Scott Stevens looked to have his match in hand at 133 with a 5-4 lead and more than a minute of riding time with just seconds to go in the third. Franco Fuentes escaped Stevens' grasp and then landed a takedown with just three seconds remaining on the clock for the thrilling 7-6 decision.

Six of the 10 matchups were decided by decision, with the Dragons earning wins in five of those bouts.

The Diplomats continue their road stint next Saturday by traveling to George Mason for a 1:00 p.m. showdown.